Scott Shannon’s True Oldies Channel Signs with Local Radio Networks (LRN) for Exclusive Syndication

/in /by

 

Angola, IN – September 6, 2023 — Local Radio Networks (LRN) is proud to announce exclusive syndication of Scott Shannon’s True Oldies Channel, making it LRN’s 19th 24/7 music format. The True Oldies Channel is hosted and programmed by legendary ‘Boss Jock’ and Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Scott Shannon and is dedicated to honoring the greatest rock & roll, pop, soul music with a spotlight on the biggest hits from the 60s and 70s.

“We are thrilled to have legendary radio personality and innovative programmer Scott Shannon entrust LRN with his 24/7 music format, the True Oldies Channel,” stated Steve Swick, Chief Executive Officer of Local Radio Networks. “I’ve personally had a longstanding friendship with Scott, and he really is one of the last Boss Jocks of the genre, playing the greatest music from the 60s and 70s and going back to the roots of rock ’n’ roll. The True Oldies Channel with Scott on the mic is just fantastic — It takes listeners back to a time of big Detroit iron automobiles, fins, chrome, and fuzzy dice.”

Shannon commented, “On behalf of my operations manager Gary Reynolds and the entire True Oldies Channel team, we’re thrilled to join LRN. I’m a longtime fan of Steve’s, and I know what an incredible team he’s put together. We’re confident they will develop and expand the True Oldies brand across the country. We also look forward to working with our friend Donna Halverson, who was with us when we started the channel at ABC Radio.”

Scott Shannon’s True Oldies Channel has a huge oldies library. In addition to The Beatles, The Beach Boys, Elvis, The Rolling Stones, The 4 Seasons, Buddy Holly, Otis Redding, Wilson Pickett, and all the hits from Motown, listeners will also hear Roy Orbison, Brenda Lee, Rick Nelson, The Everly Brothers, Gary U.S. Bonds, The Ventures, plenty of “One Hit Wonders,” and even some forgotten 45s! Special features include “The Rock & Roll Time Machine Top 5.”

Shannon is one of the most enduring and well-respected voices in radio and an acknowledged authority on music from early rock ‘n’ roll to today’s hits. In addition to the True Oldies Channel, Shannon hosts the nationally syndicated weekend program America’s Greatest Hits. He created the popular and successful Morning Zoo format for morning radio shows and helped launch the Z Morning Zoo on New York’s Z100 (WHTZ), where Shannon took the station from ‘worst to first’ in ratings in a historic 74 days. Among his many accolades, Shannon is the recipient of the prestigious Marconi Award for Syndicated Personality of the Year, he is in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, the Radio Hall of Fame, the NAB Broadcasting Hall of Fame, and the New York State Broadcasters Hall of Fame.

LRN is known for its 18 – now 19 – top quality 24/7 music formats, featuring large market talent. Its cutting-edge Radio Velocity Control (RVC) technology gives station owners and operators unprecedented local control and integrates seamlessly with all major automation manufacturers worldwide.

For more information on Scott Shannon’s True Oldies Channel, or any of LRN’s music formats, radio stations may contact Donna Halverson at donna@localradionetworks.net or 214-307-5087, and Matt Caldaronello at matt@localradionetworks.net or 661-414-7535.

 

About Local Radio Networks (www.localradionetworks.com)

Local Radio Networks, Inc. is a Michigan limited liability company that provides 24/7 radio programming, including JackFM and the True Oldies Channel, to over 700 stations nationwide, helping them reduce operating costs and maximize localized content. Steve Swick is Founder, President, and Chief Executive Officer. Will Mashione is Co-Founder and Chief Information Officer.

 

Media Contact:

Renee Cassis

RC Communications Marketing

646-808-6505

cassis2@msn.com

JackFM Inks Multi-Year Renewal with Skyview Networks and Local Radio Networks

/in /by

(July 31, 2023) – Skyview Networks, a leading audio sales and broadcast solutions company, and Local Radio Networks (LRN), a 24/7 music radio programming provider, announced today their multi-year partnership renewal with Sparknet’s JackFM format. Under this partnership, Skyview Networks will continue serving as the exclusive network sales partner and distribution provider for the energetic and distinct JackFM format. Moreover, LRN will also continue utilizing its affiliate relations services and top-tier Radio Velocity Control (RVC) cloud-based integration technology to expand the network and deliver the “Playing What We Want” experience to new stations across the US.

“We are excited to continue the partnerships with Skyview Networks and LRN,” said Garry Wall, President of Sparknet. “Their performance, their people and their technology are integral to helping us provide a world class experience for JackFM stations, listeners and advertisers.”

First partnering in January 2019, Skyview Networks and LRN combined synergies to grow their share within the 24/7 programming space drawing on Skyview’s syndication specialization and ad management technology and LRN’s affiliation strategies and IP-based automation tools. With the addition of Sparknet’s dynamic JackFM brand in January 2020, the three companies created a unique syndication opportunity that continues to super-serve radio stations, while providing significant reach and results for advertisers.

Steve Swick, CEO of LRN spoke to the renewed partnership, stating, “The combination of LRN, Skyview Networks and JackFM has proven itself to be a winning programming strategy for station owners and audiences, and we are thrilled to continue our relationship to further explore the opportunities ahead.”

With its strong portfolio of affiliate relationships and trusted advertisers, Skyview Networks is a curator of brand diversity, allowing for optimization of the JackFM brand and maximized listenership across LRN’s 24/7 platform.

“JackFM is an incredibly creative and innovative media brand that entertains millions of listeners each day,” said Steve Jones, President and CEO of Skyview Networks. “Skyview is proud to keep building on our success with JackFM and LRN in driving revenue and results for years to come.”

For affiliation information on JackFM, please contact LRN’s Pat Crocker at Pat@LocalRadioNetworks.net. Additional details on Skyview Networks’ full suite of audio, technology and syndication solutions are available at skyviewnetworks.com.

 

About Sparknet

Sparknet Communications is the owner and legal guardian of the iconic JackFM branded radio format. JackFM is widely recognized for the trademarked “Playing What We Want” music experience delivered in a scripted, character driven format. The JackFM brand entertains more than 9 million listeners every week in 62 markets throughout the United States.

 

About Local Radio Networks

Local Radio Networks (LRN) produces twenty-one 24/7 music formats and is focused on providing local broadcasters with unprecedented localization and content control with national on-air talent. LRN’s formats are delivered via its proprietary Radio Velocity Control (RVC), which integrates seamlessly with most automation systems. Skyview Networks is the exclusive national network ad sales representative for LRN. Steve Swick is Founder, President, and Chief Executive Officer. Will Mashione is Co-Founder and Chief Information Officer. LRN is headquartered in Angola, IN, with offices in Los Angeles, CA, Dallas, TX, and a state-of-the-art Programming and Operations Center in Denver, CO.

 

About Skyview Networks

Skyview Networks is an audio technology, syndication and network audio sales solutions company based in Scottsdale, Arizona that has been serving the broadcast space for nearly 30 years. With more than 10,000 radio affiliate relationships, its nationwide coverage reaches over half of all Americans each week. Skyview’s industry-leading services are utilized by major media companies, leading consumer brands, world-class entertainers, professional and collegiate sports organizations, and state news networks. For more information, visit skyviewnetworks.com and follow @SkyviewNetworks. 

Local Radio Networks (LRN) announces the addition of Classic Rock Pure

/in /by

Angola, IN, February 21, 2023 – Local Radio Networks (LRN) announced it has added a second Classic Rock offering to its mix of 24/7 formats. The new format, Classic Rock Pure is a 60’s/70’s/80’s based Classic Rock, featuring a veteran air staff with Mark Elliott weekday mornings, Dave O’Brien middays, and Dan Mitchell weekday afternoons among others delivering content.

The launch of Classic Rock Pure with a dozen affiliates brings LRN’s total 24/7 music format offerings to 18, serving nearly 700 affiliates nationwide including the distribution of JACK-FM. LRN is the largest 24/7 localized music format network.

For more information about Classic Rock Pure or the other LRN 24/7 formats and offerings, visit www.localradionetworks.com or contact EVP Patrick Crocker at Pat@localradionetworks.net

VP/Regional Affiliate Sales Donna Halverson – Donna@localradionetworks.net

VP/Regional Affiliate Sales Matt Caldaronello – Matt@localradionetworks.net

 

Local Radio Networks (LRN) offers eighteen 24/7 music formats, providing broadcasters with unprecedented localization content and control, national on-air talent, and LRN’s advanced seamless integration with most automation systems.

LRN Operations is headquartered in Angola, IN, with offices in Los Angeles, CA, Houston, TX, and Programming and Operations Center in Denver, CO.

Local Radio Networks Asks Judge To Declare Westwood One Patents Invalid.

/in /by

From Inside Radio:

Westwood One and Local Radio Networks are in court fighting over whether LRN infringed on a pair of patents WWO has held for more than a decade. In the latest development, LRN argues that the claims made in WWO’s patents are invalid because they use only existing, conventional devices and networks and don’t transform an “abstract idea” into a patent-eligible invention.

Indiana-based LRN provides 24/7 music formats to affiliates. In early March, WWO sued LRN alleging that LRN’s Radio Velocity Control hardware and software infringe on WWO-patented technology that allows it to record different content for different affiliates and then transmit it to the individual affiliates they are intended for.

LRN asserts that the patents WWO claims are invalid in the first place. LRN cites Section 101 of the Patent Act which provides that “an issued patent may be ruled invalid, if it is deemed to be drawn to an abstract idea.”

Without getting too deep into the weeds of patent law, “abstract ideas” is one of three exceptions to a patent a being considered eligible by the Supreme Court, even though it has refused to define the term “abstract idea.”

In this case, LRN says the claims asserted by WWO in the two patents are directed to “an abstract idea.” One of them pertains to directing a voice artist to record localized content which LRN says is “the abstract idea of organizing human activity.” The other patent in question deals with opertaimg a radio network using a content delivery system, which LRN says is an abstract idea of collecting, storing and presenting data.

In both cases, the WWO patents use only existing, conventional devices and networks like computers, satellites and automation systems to implement their abstract idea, and lack an “inventive concept” and therefore don’t satisfy earlier case law pertaining to similar patent claims, the filing asserts.

In the 25-page filing, LRN claims that every step in the process of sending descriptions of localized content for recording by a voice artist can be carried out by conventional methods like fax or email and thus qualify as an abstract idea. The same goes for using content delivery systems to operate a radio network, LRN argues. In both cases, the WWO patent claims lack an “inventive concept” and thus fail the test for patent eligibility. And since WWO’s claims don’t describe any technical details, the claims “are directed to nothing more than a ‘result-oriented abstract idea,” the filing argues.

Westwood One has until June 15 to reply to Local Radio Network’s brief. LRN then has two weeks after that to file its reply.

Local Radio Networks Expands Radio Offerings to Station Branding and Imaging Services in New Partnership with Broadcast My Brand

/in /by

Angola, IN, September 15, 2020 – Local Radio Networks (LRN), the leader in 24/7 music formats with state-of-the-art localization features, content control, has partnered with Broadcast My Brand, imaging experts with a team of advertising and national musical professionals who define each station’s unique story, with emphasis on its role in the local community.

Steve Swick, Chief Executive Officer of Local Radio Networks, noted, “Once again, LRN is filling the void for radio station owners and operators across the radio spectrum for top-quality custom radio jingle packages along with complete custom brand jingles that resonate on their local Main Street. I’m thrilled to partner with the incredibly talented Banner Kidd and his team at Broadcast My Brand.”

Banner Kidd,  nationally known audio artist, brand consultant and National Creative Director at Broadcast My Brand, added, “We are delighted to work with local broadcasters through our partnership with Steve and LRN. No two radio stations or retail brands are alike, and our job is to drill down till we get to the heart of each station and consumer brand. We put in the time to understand and embrace the nuances of the local towns and cities where their audience lives, eats, shops, and listens to their favorite radio station.”

Radio stations interested in learning more about Broadcast My Brand, may visit http://www.localradionetworks.com/jingles, or contact Banner Kidd at 720-699-1020 or banner@localradionetworks.com.

About Local Radio Networks (www.localradionetworks.com)

Local Radio Networks (LRN) produces thirteen 24/7 music formats along with sales and distribution of Jack FM and is focused on providing local broadcasters with unprecedented localization and content control, national on-air talent, along with award-winning news from ABC News Radio.  LRN offers advanced technology from a partnership with Skyview Networks, or LRN’s proprietary Radio Velocity Control (RVC), which integrates seamlessly with most automation systems or can serve as a stand-alone automation option.  Skyview Networks is the exclusive national network ad sales representative for LRN.  Steve Swick is Founder, President, and Chief Executive Officer.  Will Mashione is Co-Founder and Chief Information Officer.  LRN is headquartered in Angola, IN, with offices in Los Angeles, CA, Dallas, TX, and a state-of-the-art Programming and Operations Center in Denver, CO.

About Broadcast My Brand: (www.broadcastmybrand.com)

Broadcast My Brand works with businesses across the USA, in conjunction with advertising pros in radio and TV, to help in defining and building brand names. Broadcast My Brand provides overall branding consultation; jingles; video, and audio commercial production; graphic design; musical logo and lyrics; and telephone-on-hold voice and music – all designed to showcase a brand’s unique story and targeted to a specific audience’s taste and lifestyle. The team at Broadcast My Brand is comprised of experts in musical advertising and graphic design. Broadcast My Brand is part of the Kidd Production Group.

 

Media Contact:

Renee Cassis

RC Communications Marketing

646-808-6505

cassis2@msn.com

JackFM Selects Skyview Networks and Local Radio Networks for Sales and Syndication Services

/in /by

 

JackFM Selects Skyview Networks and Local Radio Networks for Sales and Syndication Services

Companies to provide Sparknet’s JackFM format with network sales, distribution and affiliate solutions

 

PHOENIX, Ariz. (August 7, 2019) – Sparknet announced today its new exclusive partnership with Skyview Networks and Local Radio Networks (LRN) for their full package of syndication services.  As part of the agreement, Skyview Networks will become the exclusive network sales partner and satellite distribution provider for JackFM’s leading Adult Variety format, with its irreverent, scripted personality and “Playing What We Want”® music experience.  LRN will lead the affiliate relations initiative and provide its proprietary IP-based Radio Velocity Control (RVC) automation technology and its integrated satellite distribution.  The agreement between the parties will be effective January 1, 2020.

“This move will upgrade the product quality for our affiliate stations in every aspect of the JackFM listener experience.  This also puts us into a partnership aligned around innovation, growth and customer service,” said Garry Wall, President of Sparknet.

Leveraging the distribution power of Skyview Networks and LRN is a strategic move that will allow JackFM to increase its already significant footprint.  Powering the effort is Skyview Networks’ advanced satellite distribution platform which serves 5,700+ radio stations nationwide and LRN’s proprietary terrestrial distribution technology, which will increase the delivery options for local radio owners and operators joining the JackFM network.  The partnership also brings unique integration opportunities to Skyview Networks’ advertisers that are seeking creative campaigns that connect with the loyal audiences tuned into the JackFM format.

“We are proud to offer Sparknet, in partnership with LRN, our full-service solution for syndicating and monetizing its successful and popular JackFM music format.  This partnership brings together the synergies of three compelling audio companies experiencing unprecedented growth,” said Ken Thiele, CEO of Skyview Networks.  “I am impressed with the leadership strategy of LRN and believe in the opportunities we bring to the industry as partners for top content creators like Sparknet.”

Earlier this year, Skyview Networks and LRN entered into a collaborative partnership.  Steve Swick, CEO of LRN, stated, “The combined expertise and services of LRN and Skyview creates the most powerful 24/7 music format syndication solution for radio station owners, personalities and content creators.  JackFM is a proven audience-winner and a perfect addition to LRN’s lineup of quality 24/7 music formats.”

“I had worked for a decade with Garry and the JackFM format and know firsthand the quality of the product and incredible creative energy he and his team dedicate to its production,” noted Pat Crocker, Executive Vice President of LRN.  “We look forward to working with the Sparknet team to increase the already extensive footprint of the JackFM brand across the US.”

With its expanding reach and audience makeup, Skyview Networks will be pivotal in looking to build network audio sales.  “We are thrilled to welcome JackFM—a diverse format that entertains and engages its listeners—to the Skyview Networks partnership portfolio,” said Jeanne-Marie Condo, EVP/GM of Skyview Networks.  “In an ever-evolving audio industry, Skyview is constantly seeking opportunities to create value for our clients and JackFM offers programming solutions that are unmatched in the industry.  We are proud to call them a partner and look forward to building on their success.”

Skyview Networks is based in Scottsdale, Arizona with sales offices located throughout the United States, including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Miami and Atlanta.  It services advertising clients on the network and regional level.

Radio stations that would like more information on the JackFM format may contact LRN’s Pat Crocker at 720-500-3810 and Pat@LocalRadioNetworks.net.

 

About Sparknet

Sparknet Communications is the owner and legal guardian of the iconic JackFM branded radio format.

JackFM is widely recognized for the trademarked “Playing What We Want” music experience delivered in a scripted, character driven format.  The JackFM brand entertains more than 9 million listeners every week in 62 markets throughout the United States.

 

About Local Radio Networks (www.localradionetworks.com)

Local Radio Networks (LRN) produces thirteen 24/7 music formats and is focused on providing local broadcasters with unprecedented localization and content control, national on-air talent, along with award-winning news from ABC News Radio.  LRN offers advanced dual delivery platforms via XDS satellite, from a partnership with Skyview Networks, or LRN’s proprietary Radio Velocity Control (RVC), which integrates seamlessly with most automation systems or can serve as a stand-alone automation option.  Skyview Networks is the exclusive national network ad sales representative for LRN.  Steve Swick is Founder, President, and Chief Executive Officer.  Will Mashione is Co-Founder and Chief Information Officer.  LRN is headquartered in Angola, IN, with offices in Los Angeles, CA, Dallas, TX, and a state-of-the-art Programming and Operations Center in Denver, CO.

 

About Skyview Networks

Skyview Networks is a broadcast technology and national network sales solutions company serving over 5,000 radio stations reaching 113 million listeners weekly.  Skyview Networks provides services to ABC Radio, CBS Audio, professional and collegiate sports organizations and two state news networks.  Founded in 1995, Skyview is based in Scottsdale, Arizona and focuses on providing best-in-class services that include satellite and IP distribution, full network automation, inventory management systems and network audio sales.  For more information, visit skyviewnetworks.com and follow @SkyviewNetworks.

 

 

Media Contacts:

Skyview Networks:                                  Local Radio Networks:                                                                                 

Renee Smith                                                     Renee Cassis

480-503-8702                                                 RC Communications Marketing

renee@skyviewsat.com                                 646-808-6505

cassis2@msn.com

 

Omar Thompson

214-546-4718

omart@1ninemedia.com

Patrick Crocker Joins Local Radio Networks as EVP, 24/7 Music Formats, Following His Resignation from Westwood One

/in /by

Crocker is Latest in Stream of Network Executives Moving to LRN

Angola, IN, June 19, 2019 – Seasoned 24/7 music format executive Patrick (Pat) Crocker is the latest in a stream of senior managers to join Local Radio Networks (LRN) following their depature from Westwood One. Crocker, who has been in radio and the 24/7 music format business for more than 30 years, joins LRN as Executive Vice President and will work closely with Chief Executive Officer Steve Swick. Crocker will concentrate on super-serving the needs of local radio owners and operators, help develop new revenue-generating products, and support LRN’s relationships with Skyview Networks and ABC Radio. LRN is known for providing small- and medium-market broadcasters with superior 24/7 music programming and technology that features maximum local control and localization.

”In the past year and a half, we have collectively amassed over 135 years of treasured time and talent along with critical expertise in 24/7 music formats,” observed Swick. ”With the addition of Pat to our growing team, we can further expand our services and are well on our way to attaining the leadership position within the 24/7 music format space. I am delighted to welcome Pat and enthusiastic about what lies ahead for LRN and our affiliated radio station partners.”

“LRN offers local broadcasters an exciting combination of strategic benefits that attracted me to the company,” said Crocker. “The opportunity to focus 100 percent on the small and medium market radio community, without other corporate and Wall Street distractions, is appealing and will allow me to deliver the products and services that local broadcasters need to compete and thrive in today’s environment. The association with Skyview Networks and ABC Radio is a powerhouse combination that makes it all-the-more enticing.  I’m looking forward to rejoining my former colleagues who have migrated to Local Radio Networks.”

Crocker is the sixth in a series of executives to exit Westwood One to join LRN in the past two years. Others who have made the move are: Matt Caldaronello, Chris Reeves, Chris Hatton, Jonathon Steele, Chad Seng,

Crocker has 30+ years of experience in radio sales and management across local, national, network, and syndication. He has spurred the growth of 24/7 music format affiliations at Jones Radio Networks, Dial Global, and Westwood One and overseen the consolidation of affiliate sales departments during several network mergers. Crocker began his career in media in St. Louis as a national ad sales representative and moved into local and national sales management at St. Louis iconic stations WIL-FM and KSHE-FM, as well as KALC-FM and KIMN-FM in Denver.

Pat Crocker can be reached at 720-500-3810 and Pat@LocalRadioNetworks.net.

About Local Radio Networks (www.localradionetworks.com)

Local Radio Networks (LRN) produces thirteen 24/7 music formats and is focused on providing local broadcasters with unprecedented localization and content control, national on-air talent, along with award-winning news from ABC News Radio. LRN offers advanced dual delivery platforms via XDS satellite, from a partnership with Skyview Networks, or LRN’s proprietary Radio Velocity Control (RVC), which integrates seamlessly with most automation systems or can serve as a stand-alone automation option. Skyview Networks is the exclusive national network ad sales representative for LRN. Steve Swick is Founder, President, and Chief Executive Officer. Will Mashione is Co-Founder and Chief Information Officer. LRN is headquartered in Angola, IN, with offices in Los Angeles, CA, Dallas, TX, and a state-of-the-art Programming and Operations Center in Denver, CO.

Media Contact:

Renee Cassis | RC Communications Marketing

646-808-6505 | cassis2@msn.com

Matt Caldaronello Joins Local Radio Networks’ 24/7 Music Formats Following Resignation from Westwood One

/in /by

Matt Caldaronello

Angola, IN – January 7, 2019 — Local Radio Networks (LRN) is proud to announce that Matt Caldaronello has joined its team of 24/7 music format experts as Vice President of Affiliate Sales. The announcement comes days after Caldaronello resigned from Cumulus Media’s Westwood One Network, where he was the #1 seller of 24/7 music format affiliations. The move occurs only 18 months after three former Westwood One executives joined LRN’s expanding team. More executive announcements are expected in the coming weeks, as LRN continues to grow and strengthen its position.  

“Matt is one of network radio’s most highly respected affiliate sales and relations professionals,” commented Steve Swick, President and Chief Executive Officer of LRN, who made the announcement. “He is passionate about the 24/7 music format business and cares deeply about the radio station owners and operators who rely and depend on superior quality content and service, combined with local control. His long-term relationships will be an asset to the radio stations migrating to LRN. On behalf of our long-time Vice President of Affiliate Sales, Donna Halverson, and our entire team, I am delighted to welcome Matt.”

“Broadcasters are ready for a positive change,” stated Caldaronello. “LRN is dedicated exclusively to 24/7 music programming, which allows them to focus entirely on the needs of local broadcasters. LRN’s strategic relationships with ABC News Radio for award-winning news and with Skyview Networks for advanced XDS satellite delivery add more high-quality options for affiliates. I’m excited about the opportunities and new tools that I can now offer owners and operators, including maximum flexibility and control, along with quick turnaround solutions.”

Caldaronello has more than 20 years of network radio experience in 24/7 music formats. During his most recent role as Vice President of Affiliate Management for Westwood One, he oversaw approximately 800 station affiliations and was responsible for generating new affiliate business and renewals. He can be reached via email, matt@localradionetworks.com, at his Los Angeles office, 661-414-7535, or on mobile, 661-618-2684.

About Local Radio Networks (www.localradionetworks.com)

Local Radio Networks (LRN) produces thirteen 24/7 music formats and is focused on providing local broadcasters with unprecedented localization and content control, national on-air talent, along with award-winning news from ABC News Radio. LRN offers advanced dual delivery platforms via XDS satellite, from a partnership with Skyview Networks, or LRN’s proprietary Radio Velocity Control (RVC), which integrates seamlessly with most automation systems or can serve as a stand-alone automation option. Skyview Networks is the exclusive national network ad sales representative for LRN. Steve Swick is Founder, President, and Chief Executive Officer. Will Mashione is Co-Founder and Chief Information Officer. LRN is headquartered in Angola, IN, with offices in Los Angeles, CA, Dallas, TX, and a state-of-the-art Programming and Operations Center in Denver, CO. 

Media Contact:

Renee Cassis | RC Communications Marketing

646-808-6505 | cassis2@msn.com

Local Radio Networks Shifts to Skyview Networks; In Conjunction with ABC Radio, Companies to Provide Network Sales, Distribution and Content Opportunities

/in /by

Angola, IN – July 11, 2018 – In a move that will change the paradigm of the 24/7 music format business for small and medium market stations, Local Radio Networks (LRN) is collaborating with Skyview Networks and ABC Radio to expand distribution, drive network sales revenue and power additional content.

As part of the agreement, Skyview Networks will provide its advanced satellite distribution platform for unprecedented reliability and flexibility and become the exclusive network sales partner for LRN’s industry-leading 24/7 music formats.  ABC Radio will provide its worldwide resources to drive additional programming opportunities to LRN and its affiliates.  The agreement between the parties is effective January 1, 2019.

Twelve expertly programmed 24/7 music formats including AC, Country, CHR, and Rock along with localization, major market talent, large libraries, and uncompressed audio are hallmarks of the LRN affiliate experience.  The satellite technology provided by Skyview Networks amplifies the delivery options local radio owners and operators have at their fingertips.

“This is really an exciting time for Local Radio Networks.  Launching this relationship with ABC Radio and Skyview Networks allows us to expand our 24/7 programming footprint and distribute our music formats with dual delivery platforms of cloud-based and now satellite delivery via XDS smart receivers to potentially thousands of stations, effortlessly and efficiently,” said Steve Swick, Chief Executive Officer, LRN.  “Steve Jones and ABC Radio bring some very special content opportunities to the table, as well.”

Continued Swick, “With the addition of Skyview Networks’ distribution and network sales expertise, we’re able to elevate our business across radio dials.  This transition reflects our commitment to deliver superior 24/7 music programming to small and medium market stations every day, while increasing the power and flexibility affiliates have locally.”

“We’re very pleased to welcome LRN to the Skyview family and deepen our relationship with ABC Radio.  Skyview is in a tremendous period of growth, which is a result of dynamic partnerships and investments,” said Ken Thiele, President of Skyview Networks.  “Our next-generation distribution technology allows us to provide the marketplace and local owners new and better 24/7 music formats from LRN, which is great news for the industry.”

“ABC Radio and Skyview welcome LRN. From a network sales perspective, we are experiencing heavy inventory demand and LRN’s music formats and market reach help deliver on the entertainment experiences brands are seeking,” said Jeanne-Marie Condo, Executive Vice President & General Manager, Skyview Networks.  “At Skyview one of our strengths is providing advertisers custom integrations.  LRN’s dynamic personalities really allow us to double-down and provide clients more of what they want.”

Earlier this year, LRN and ABC News Radio initiated their relationship with an arrangement to deliver ABC’s award-winning news to LRN affiliates.

Regarding the growing business relationship with LRN, Steve Jones, Vice President & General Manager, ABC Radio commented, “The 24/7 music format business is a storied part of ABC Radio’s heritage, so this is a natural extension of the ABC Radio brand.  We’re already providing an ABC News Radio option for LRN affiliates, so taking this next step in our relationship just makes sense.  Congratulations to Steve Swick on the growth of LRN and to Ken Thiele and the Skyview Networks team.  This demonstrates our shared commitment to moving our business forward.”

Radio stations that would like more information on LRN may contact Donna Halverson at 214-307-5087 or donna@localradionetworks.com, or Jim Ortega at 720-500-3810 and jim@localradionetworks.com.  ABC Radio will handle affiliate services for the news products. For ABC Radio affiliation information, contact Heidi Oringer at 212.456.5541 or heidi.b.oringer@abc.com.

About Local Radio Networks (www.localradionetworks.com)

Local Radio Networks, Inc. (LRN) is a Michigan limited liability company that provides 24/7 music radio programming to small and medium market stations, helping them reduce operating costs and maximize localized content. LRN’s cloud-based Radio Velocity Control (RVC) technology delivers maximum custom localization and station owner controls that integrate seamlessly into most existing playout systems or can be used for all 24/7 automation needs. Steve Swick is Founder, President, and Chief Executive Officer. Will Mashione is Co-Founder and Chief Information Officer. Launched in 2015 with corporate headquarters in Angola, Indiana, LRN has expanded to offices in Dallas, TX, and operations and programming facility in Denver, CO.

About Skyview Networks

Skyview Networks is a broadcast technology and national network sales solutions company that provides services to ABC Radio, CBS News Radio, Local Radio Networks, professional and collegiate sports organizations and two state news networks. Founded in 1995, Skyview is based in Scottsdale, Arizona and focuses on providing best-in-class services that include satellite distribution, full network automation, inventory management systems and network audio sales. For more information, visit skyviewnetworks.com.

About ABC Radio 

ABC Radio syndicates America’s largest commercial radio news network, ABC News Radio, along with the ABC Radio Lifestyle and Entertainment network and ABC Radio Digital to over 1650 radio stations and multiple digital distributors. ABC Radio reaches more than 76-million listeners each week across broadcast and digital audio platforms. ABC Radio is part of the Disney ABC Television Group.  For more information: www.abcradio.com.

Media Contacts:

Skyview Networks:

Renee Smith

480-503-8702

renee@skyviewsat.com

Omar Thompson

214-546-4718

omart@1ninemedia.com

 

Local Radio Networks:

Renee Cassis

RC Communications Marketing

646-808-6505

cassis2@msn.com

ABC News Media Relations
Elizabeth Russo
212-456-7414
Elizabeth.russo@abc.com

Local Radio Networks (LRN) Debuts New 24/7 Music Format – “Superstar Country” in Tennessee and Illinois

/in /by

Angola, IN – April 16, 2018 — Local Radio Networks (LRN) is proud to announce Superstar Country, its newest professionally programmed 24/7 music format with maximum localization and top country radio talent. Superstar Country features hits from the 80s through today, with a focus on the genuine country stars and icons from the 1990s through 2000s, such as George Strait, Kenny Chesney, Brooks & Dunn, Alan Jackson, Garth Brooks, Keith Urban, and more. Superstar Country also blends in current hits that are authentic to the true country sound.

Currently on WJDT, Rogersville, TN, and WIBV, Mt. Vernon, IL, Superstar Country targets a core 35-49 country radio audience, with a broad reach that resonates across the 25-54 demographic.

“We’ve rounded up the best national country radio talent and combined their voices with the most popular hits from the biggest country music stars, all with maximum localization,” observed Chris Reeves, Vice President of Programming for Local Radio Networks.

Hosts of LRN’s Superstar Country include:

  • Craig “Catfish” Hunter, previous Jones Radio Network and local Denver, Atlanta, San Jose, and Tampa on-air personality, will be the afternoon drive host
  • Maria “ChaCha” Chavez, former Westwood One Radio Networks and longtime Denver on-air host, will take on midday duties
  • Jenny D, previous Westwood One Radio Networks local Denver on-air talent, will be the evening host

With the addition of Superstar Country, LRN now offers thirteen 24/7 music formats. Stations interested in learning more about LRN’s 24/7 music formats may contact Donna Halverson at 214-307-5087 and donna@localradionetworks.com,or Jim Ortega at 720-500-3810 and jim@localradionetworks.com.

LRN’s cloud-based Radio Velocity Control (RVC) technology delivers maximum custom localization and station owner controls that integrates seamlessly into most existing playout systems or can be used for all 24/7 automation needs.

About Local Radio Networks (www.localradionetworks.com)

Local Radio Networks, Inc. is a Michigan limited liability company that provides 24/7 Music radio programming to small and medium market stations, helping them reduce operating costs and maximize localized content and control. Steve Swick is Founder, President and Chief Executive Officer. Will Mashione is Co-Founder and Chief Information Officer.

Media Contact:

Renee Cassis | RC Communications Marketing

646-808-6505 | cassis2@msn.com